FREE HSPA Regulations and Standards Compliance Questions and Answers
Which regulatory agency sets workplace safety standards for handling chemicals in sterile processing?
OSHA establishes safety guidelines, including handling hazardous chemicals like disinfectants and sterilants, to protect workers in the sterile processing department.
What document provides manufacturers’ instructions for cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of medical devices?
The IFU contains specific guidelines from manufacturers on how to clean, disinfect, and sterilize their devices, ensuring compliance with proper protocols and device longevity.
According to the CDC, how often should sterilizers in healthcare settings undergo biological testing?
The CDC recommends weekly biological testing to confirm that sterilizers are functioning effectively by destroying highly resistant microorganisms like bacterial spores.
What is the role of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) in sterile processing?
AAMI provides evidence-based standards for cleaning, sterilization, and handling medical devices, helping sterile processing departments meet regulatory compliance and ensure patient safety.
What must sterile processing technicians do if they encounter a non-compliant sterilization process?
If a sterilization process fails or is non-compliant, it is crucial to stop the workflow, document the issue, and inform the supervisor to investigate and resolve the problem. Using improperly sterilized instruments risks patient safety.
